MIC3022

Molecular virology and viral pathogenesis ( 6 points, SCA Band 2, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: Associate Professor Peter Wright

Offered:
Clayton Second semester 2005 (Day)

Synopsis: The unit will cover molecular aspects of virus replication and introduce the students to the mechanisms used by viruses in causing disease in infected hosts. The focus will be on human and animal viruses. The molecular properties of RNA- and DNA-containing viruses will be presented. The lecture material will be supported by practical experiments which demonstrate both classical techniques in animal virology and the methods of recombinant DNA used to analyse virus replication.

Objectives: On completion of this unit, students will have gained an understanding of the expression strategies of RNA- and DNA-containing viruses, the interactions between viral and cell components that lead to disease in animal and human hosts, the suitability of viruses as gene delivery vectors, the threat to world health of emerging viral diseases, and the methods used to study viral genomes. Students will have skills in the proper preparation and submission of laboratory reports, the purification and assay of animal viruses, and the molecular techniques used to analyse viral genomes.

Assessment: Written theory examination (2 hours) 50% + Theory of practical examination (1.5 hours) 32% + Laboratory reports and practical class assessment 18%

Contact Hours: Three 1-hour lectures and one 3-hour laboratory class or tutorial presentation per week

Prerequisites: At least two of MIC2011, MIC2022, MOL2011, MOL2022, BMS2052 or BMS2062